By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA — The National Police Commission (Napolcom) has prohibited the use of single-use plastics within its offices as part of efforts to promote environmental sustainability.
In a memorandum signed on Aug. 28, Napolcom Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan directed all central and regional offices to minimize, and if possible, eliminate the use of disposable plastics in office activities such as meetings, trainings, and conferences.
Banned items include plastic straws, stirrers, utensils, disposable cups and food containers, single-use water bottles, and plastic bags.
Employees are encouraged to use refillable containers, reusable utensils, eco-bags, and biodegradable materials.
Calinisan said the policy is meant to instill “a culture of responsibility and sustainability” within the workplace and aligns with global initiatives such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals, as well as local government ordinances on environmental protection.
All Napolcom offices have been instructed to review their practices to ensure compliance with the directive. (Christopher Lloyd Caliwan / PNA)
